Laying of a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by the Transgender American Veterans Association, Washington, D.C. 2004

We, Transgender American Veterans, many decorated in combat, were at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, hallowed ground, waiting in respectful silence and nearly explosive anticipation under a cloud of fear that our transphobic government might somehow make this not happen. When the wreath was presented, we felt a swell of uplifting relief and pride. As our contingent proudly stood front and center, at attention, we all felt "first class". One more step forward!